Thread: Do you use an alum block after shaving?

I can understand styptic for leaks, but Alum on the face? Can that be good for the skin? I would think of it clogging the pores. I mean is it not the active ingredient in antiperspirents? I can see and smell why that is important, but the face regularly???
M

I use it after every shave. Without any problems from clogged pore bump or anything else. I have also heard reports of it actually helping people who have had issues all their life. So thats all I know I aient no chemist but I know what works.

Also it burns so good!!!!!!

Originally Posted by Doc

I use it after every shave. Without any problems from clogged pore bump or anything else. I have also heard reports of it actually helping people who have had issues all their life. So thats all I know I aient no chemist but I know what works.

Also it burns so good!!!!!!

Your the doctor! Pretty impressive chemical, so many uses. This one is news to me. I use Alum as a mordant when making certain pigments.
Mike

After shaving I clean my face with a piping hot wet towel. Then I run the wet alum block all over my face. Then I run the wet towel over my face again and finally splash some cold water onto it. After my face is towel dried I apply the A/S lotion.

I don't know why I use the alum. I think it's because the guy that got me into SRshaving does it too and I took over the habit. Also I really like the sting in the morning

I find that I'm much more prone to after shave discomfort without the alum. Plus the masochist in me likes the slight burn.

Honestly though it's just become part of my routine....shave, hot water rinse, alum, clean up, cold water splash, alcohol based gel, after shave lotion.

It also is a great indicator as to where you are using too much pressure. I know I had a great shave when I use the alum and there is no burn.

As a noob I started and continue to use an alum block. After shaving, I do a cold water splash and then rub the alum block all over. The quality of my shave is in reverse proportion to the pain. Better shave = less burn.

After that, I do another cold water splash, use some Thayers and then my ASB.

I don't think I would skip a cold water splash after the block.

I find the block very useful in my routine. I have hardly touched my styptic pencil.

Gentlemen,

I started using alum block and later gave up, because it set my face on fire. Now I use it occasionally. Other times I use super witch hazel.

Alum block does indeed close the pores and tighten the skin. Maybe I'll go back to using it regularly. It's hard to resist alum block despite the need to call the fire department.

Regards,

Obie

After every shave I use an Alum Block. The alum block with cold water give a really good refreshing feeling to the post shave. It will also quickly let you know where you've nicked or chaffed the skin.

As an aside, I will say it doesnt burn the same as stypic, and stypic leaves a distinct residue on your skin, unlike the block of alum.


I don't think really its a necessary part of a shave, it's just another accoutrement for your shave kit.


cheers
D

No, I have never used an alum block after shaving, or any other time. I thought I was doing fine with just a styptic stick. I'm going to order one, now that you have me a little curious.

Originally Posted by natepaint

No, I have never used an alum block after shaving, or any other time. I thought I was doing fine with just a styptic stick. I'm going to order one, now that you have me a little curious.

Alum blocks rock.


I may have given up on straight shaving my first few times if it hadn't be that rock.